St Teresa’s Catholic Primary School, located in Ashford, Kent, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 15-16, 2020. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils feel happy and safe, supported by attentive staff. The daily check-in system allows students to express their feelings, enabling staff to monitor their well-being and readiness to learn effectively. Pupils demonstrate enthusiasm for learning, showing respect for their teachers and peers, and they respond well to the high expectations set by the staff. The school’s Christian values promote responsibility and strong relationships among students, contributing to a low incidence of bullying, which is addressed promptly when it occurs.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, with most pupils participating in clubs and sports. Educational visits, such as the trip to Canterbury Cathedral, enhance the learning experience and engage students in practical applications of their studies. The leadership team is committed to providing a well-rounded education grounded in Catholic values, ensuring that the curriculum is broad and sequenced effectively in core subjects like English, mathematics, and science. This structured approach allows pupils to build knowledge and skills progressively, leading to strong academic performance.
While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement, particularly in the planning and sequencing of the curriculum in subjects like geography and history. Leaders are aware of this and are actively working to enhance the coherence of the curriculum across all subjects. The staff is well-trained, with ongoing professional development ensuring that teachers possess deep subject knowledge. This support helps them manage their workloads effectively while maintaining high standards in teaching.
Teachers regularly assess pupils’ understanding and recall, which aids in reinforcing their learning. The school is inclusive, providing appropriate resources and adaptations for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that all students have access to the curriculum. The emphasis on reading is evident, with effective phonics instruction and a wide range of reading materials that cater to different skill levels. Older pupils develop a love for reading, engaging with various texts and demonstrating comprehension.
The school prioritizes personal development, offering numerous opportunities for enrichment through community involvement and extracurricular activities. Initiatives such as projects with local artists and Shakespeare workshops for upper-year students contribute to a well-rounded educational experience. The early years program is tailored to meet the diverse needs of children, focusing on communication skills and providing challenges for more advanced learners.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with all staff prioritizing the well-being and safety of pupils. The daily check-in process is a vital tool for monitoring students’ emotional states, and staff are trained to recognize signs of distress. The designated safeguarding leads ensure that staff training is current and that concerns are addressed promptly, collaborating with external agencies when necessary.
In summary, St Teresa’s Catholic Primary School is a good school that provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils. While there are areas for development in the curriculum, the leadership team is proactive in addressing these issues. The school’s commitment to high standards in teaching, personal development, and safeguarding creates a positive atmosphere conducive to learning and growth.
